Single-use genderless aseptic fluid couplings

ABSTRACT

Some fluid coupling devices described herein are configured for use in fluid systems. For example, some embodiments described in this document are single-use, aseptic fluid coupling devices that can be coupled to create a sterile flow path therethrough. Some such aseptic couplings are genderless couplings such that two identical aseptic couplings can be coupled together.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 62/892,491, filed Aug. 27, 2019, and U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 62/948,607, filed Dec. 16, 2019. The disclosures of the priorapplications are considered part of (and are incorporated by referencein) the disclosure of this application.

BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field

This document relates to fluid coupling devices for fluid systems andmethods. For example, some embodiments described in this document relateto single-use, aseptic fluid coupling devices.

2. Background Information

Some fluid systems, such as some bioprocessing fluid systems or bloodhandling systems, may require fluid couplings that can asepticallyconnect a fluid flow path. In one example implementation, it isdesirable to connect one or more sample bags to be able to receive asample of fluid from a bioreactor system in a manner that preventscontamination of the fluid sample. In that scenario, an aseptic couplingcan be used to connect the sample bag(s) to receive the fluid(s) fromthe bioreactor system while substantially preventing biologicalcontamination of the fluid(s) from the coupling and the environment.

SUMMARY

This document describes a number of fluid coupling devices for fluidsystems and methods. In some embodiments, the fluid coupling devices canbe implemented as single-use, aseptic fluid coupling connection devices.In the context of this disclosure, the term “fluid” includes both gasesand liquids.

In particular embodiments, the fluid coupling devices described hereinare single-use devices because, after the two portions of the coupling(also referred to herein as “coupling halves” and/or “connectors”) areconnected to each other, the coupled portions are designed to resistuncoupling. For example, such single-use coupling devices are equippedwith one or more mechanical components that operate like locks tomaintain the two portions of the coupling in the coupled state. Hence,in these particular embodiments, the fluid coupling devices providedherein are structurally configured to be single-use connection devicesso that, after the single-use coupling halves have been connected toeach other, they cannot be operably disconnected from each other (assuch, preserving the sterility or biological integrity of thesystem/flow path/etc.).

Additionally, in such single-use embodiments or in other embodiments,the fluid coupling devices can be configured as “aseptic” couplingdevices in that can be connected to each other while inhibitingbiological contamination from migrating into the flow paths. Such an“aseptic” coupling will also serve to limit the exposure of the fluid tothe surrounding environment.

Further, in such single-use embodiments, or other embodiments, the fluidcoupling devices can be configured as genderless couplings. That is, thetwo coupling portions can be designed exactly alike so that there is nomale or female coupling halves as in many conventional fluid couplingdesigns.

In one aspect, this disclosure is directed to an aseptic fluid couplingand methods for use. In some embodiments, such an aseptic fluid couplingcan include: (i) a main body defining a longitudinal axis, a bore, and afluid flow path through the main body along the longitudinal axis; (ii)a seal member including a portion disposed within the bore and a portionextending from the front face around the longitudinal axis; and (iii) aflexible membrane including a portion attached to the front face aroundthe seal member to block contaminants from entering the fluid flow path,the membrane also including a tail end portion that is at an oppositeend of the membrane in comparison to the portion attached to the frontface. The main body can include a front face; a termination that is atan opposite end of the main body in comparison to the front face; analignment post; and an alignment guide defining internal spaceconfigured to slidably receive an alignment post of another asepticfluid coupling when two of the aseptic fluid couplings are matedtogether.

Such an aseptic fluid coupling may optionally include one or more of thefollowing features. The alignment post may extend parallel to thelongitudinal axis. The membrane may be porous such that air can passthrough the membrane. The alignment post and the alignment guide mayeach include attachment features whereby the alignment post latches withan engaged alignment guide and the alignment guide latches with anengaged alignment post. The attachment features of the alignment postmay include at least one groove. The attachment features of thealignment guide may include at least one flexible latch member. The mainbody may include a termination member that includes the termination. Thetermination member may extend into the bore. The termination member maysnap into engagement with other portions of the main body. Thetermination member may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis inrelation to the other portions of the main body. The aseptic fluidcoupling may also include a seal disposed between the termination memberand the other portions of the main body. The termination member maydefine a portion of the fluid flow path. The termination member may abutagainst the seal member within the bore. The aseptic fluid coupling mayalso include a protective cover that is releasably engageable with themain body. The protective cover may press two layers of the membraneagainst the seal member while the protective cover is engaged with themain body. The protective cover may define an opening aligned with thelongitudinal axis while the protective cover is engaged with the mainbody.

In another aspect, this disclosure is directed to an aseptic fluidcoupling that includes a main body defining a longitudinal axis, a bore,and a fluid flow path through the main body along the longitudinal axis;a seal member including a portion extending from the front face; and aflexible membrane including a portion attached to the front face aroundthe seal member. The main body includes a front face, an alignment post,and an alignment guide.

Such an aseptic fluid coupling may optionally include one or more of thefollowing features. The alignment guide may define an internal spaceconfigured to slidably receive an alignment post of another asepticfluid coupling when two of the aseptic fluid couplings are matedtogether. A centerline of the alignment post, a centerline of thealignment guide, and the longitudinal axis may all be in a same plane.The bore may be between the alignment post and the alignment guide. Insome embodiments, a distance between the longitudinal axis and thecenterline of the alignment post is equal to a distance between thelongitudinal axis and the centerline of the alignment guide.

In another aspect, this disclosure is directed to an aseptic fluidcoupling device that includes: a main body; a cover slidably attached tothe main body; a first seal between the cover and the main body; asecond seal within the main body; a seal pusher slidably coupled to themain body and positioned to abut against the second seal; and a lockring threadedly coupled to the main body and rotatably coupled to theseal pusher.

In another aspect, this disclosure is directed to an aseptic fluidcoupling device that includes: a main body defining a longitudinal axis;a seal within the main body; a seal pusher movably coupled to the mainbody and positioned to abut against the seal, the seal pusher comprisinga seal pusher lever slidably coupled in a slot defined by the main body;and a membrane removably coupled to a front face of the main body. Theslot defined by the main body extends at an acute angle relative to thelongitudinal axis such that rotating the seal pusher relative to themain body pushes the seal along the longitudinal axis relative to themain body.

In another aspect, this disclosure is directed to an aseptic fluidcoupling device that includes: a main body; and a seal disposed withinthe main body and having a pull tab unitarily formed therewith. The mainbody includes a piercing element positioned to pierce a portion of theseal or pull tab.

In another aspect, this disclosure is directed to an aseptic fluidcoupling device that includes: a main body at least a portion of whichhas an ovular cross-sectional shape; a seal disposed within the mainbody; and an insert slidably coupled to the main body and slidable alonga longitudinal axis of the main body between a first position and asecond position. Moving the insert from the first position to the secondposition causes the insert to pierce the seal.

In another aspect, this disclosure is directed to an aseptic fluidcoupling device that includes: a seal body; a first seal within the sealbody; a twist collar threadedly coupled to the seal body; and a plungerslidably coupled to the seal body and positioned to pierce the firstseal in response to rotation of the twist collar in relation to the sealbody. The plunger includes a second seal attached to a tip thereof.

In another aspect, this disclosure is directed to an aseptic fluidcoupling device that includes: a main body defining a longitudinal axis;a seal within the main body; a seal pusher movably coupled to the mainbody and positioned to abut against the seal, the seal pusher comprisinga seal pusher lever with two radially-extending portions slidably, theseal pusher lever slidably coupled in a slot defined by the main body;and a membrane removably coupled to a front face of the main body andcovering the seal. The slot defined by the main body extends at an acuteangle relative to the longitudinal axis such that rotating the sealpusher relative to the main body pushes the seal along the longitudinalaxis relative to the main body.

Particular embodiments of the subject matter described in this documentcan be implemented to realize one or more of the following advantages.First, in some embodiments, the fluid coupling devices mayadvantageously provide a user with audible, visual, and/or tactilefeedback in reference to the motions performed for physically connectingthe two portions of the fluid coupling devices to each other. Suchaudible and/or tactile feedback can provide the user with an efficientand conclusive indication or confirmation of the proper function anddesired configuration of the fluid coupling device.

Second, some embodiments of the fluid coupling devices provided hereinare a metallic-free construction (also referred to as a nonmetallicfluid coupling device). As such, such embodiments of the nonmetallicfluid coupling devices can be advantageously sterilized using a gammasterilization technique. Also, in some circumstances, the nonmetallicfluid coupling devices exhibit enhanced fatigue-resistancecharacteristics, minimal installed stress, and enhanced corrosionresistance in comparison to some fluid couplings that includetraditional metallic parts such as metal springs.

Third, some embodiments of the fluid coupling devices provide animproved aseptic connection capability that may optionally reduce oreliminate the need for sterile rooms or sterile benchtop environments insome cases. As such, these embodiments of the aseptic fluid couplingdevices described herein may facilitate efficient and cost-effectiveoperations or uses that would otherwise be high-cost or even costprohibitive in some traditional settings that required the connection ofparticular fluid couplings in a sterile room or within a sterileflow-hood to prevent biological contamination.

Fourth, some embodiments of the fluid coupling devices provided hereinare advantageously designed to be genderless. Accordingly, usage of thefluid coupling devices are simplified and a user may be able to carryless inventory of fluid coupling components. Also, the genderless aspectof the fluid couplings offers additional system flexibility becauseanything with one of these couplings can connect to anything else withanother one of these couplings.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this disclosure pertains. In addition, the materials,methods, and examples of the embodiments described herein areillustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth inthe accompanying drawings and the description herein. Other features,objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from thedescription and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an example fluid system including anexample fluid coupling arranged in a pre-connected configuration, inaccordance with some embodiments provided herein.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example aseptic coupling inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a top view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the aseptic coupling ofFIG. 2 taken along break line 4-4 of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 2in an uncoupled configuration.

FIG. 6 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of two of the asepticcouplings of FIG. 2 in an uncoupled configuration.

FIG. 7 is a side view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 2 in apre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another example aseptic coupling inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a side view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the aseptic couplingof FIG. 8 taken along break line 10-10 of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 8in a pre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 12 is a side view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 8 in apre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 13 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of two of the asepticcouplings of FIG. 8 in the pre-coupled configuration taken along breakline 13-13 of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another example aseptic coupling inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 15 is a side view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the aseptic couplingof FIG. 14 taken along break line 15-15 of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a seal and pull tab of the asepticcoupling of FIG. 14.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the seal and pull-tab of FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 shows a portion of the cross-sectional view of the seal andpull-tab of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 14in a pre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 21 is a side view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 14 in thepre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 22 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of two of the asepticcouplings of FIG. 14 taken along break line 22-22 of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of another example aseptic coupling inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 24 is an end view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the aseptic couplingof FIG. 23 taken along the break line B-B of FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a top view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 23.

FIG. 27 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the aseptic couplingof FIG. 23 taken along the break line A-A of FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 is a side view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 23.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of an insert component of the asepticcoupling of FIG. 23.

FIG. 30 is an end view of the insert component of FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the insert componentof FIG. 29 taken along the break line B-B of FIG. 30.

FIG. 32 is a first side view of the insert component of FIG. 29.

FIG. 33 is a second side view of the insert component of FIG. 29.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a seal component of the asepticcoupling of FIG. 23.

FIG. 35 is an end view of the seal component of FIG. 34.

FIG. 36 is a side view of the seal component of FIG. 34.

FIG. 37 is a first longitudinal cross-sectional view of the insertcomponent of FIG. 34 taken along the break line A-A of FIG. 35.

FIG. 38 is a second longitudinal cross-sectional view of the insertcomponent of FIG. 34 taken along the break line B-B of FIG. 36.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 23in a pre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 40 is a side view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 23 in apre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 41 is an end view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 23 in thepre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 42 is another side view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 23in the pre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 43 is a longitudinal cross-section of two of the aseptic couplingsof FIG. 23 in the pre-coupled configuration taken along the break lineA-A of FIG. 41.

FIG. 44 is a longitudinal cross-section of two of the aseptic couplingsof FIG. 23 in the pre-coupled configuration taken along the break lineB-B of FIG. 42.

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of another example aseptic coupling inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 46 is an end view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 45.

FIG. 47 is a first side view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 45.

FIG. 48 is a first longitudinal cross-sectional view of the asepticcoupling of FIG. 45 taken along break line A-A of FIG. 46.

FIG. 49 is a second longitudinal cross-sectional view of the asepticcoupling of FIG. 45 taken along break line B-B of FIG. 47.

FIG. 50 is a second side view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 45.

FIG. 51 is an exploded longitudinal cross-sectional view of a plungercomponent and seal of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 45.

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of a twist collar component of the asepticcoupling of FIG. 45.

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of a seal body component of the asepticcoupling of FIG. 45.

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a seal component of the asepticcoupling of FIG. 45.

FIG. 55 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the seal component ofFIG. 54.

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 45in a pre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 57 is a first side view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 45in a pre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 58 is an end view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 45 in apre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 59 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of two of the asepticcouplings of FIG. 45 in a pre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 60 is a second side view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 45in a pre-coupled configuration.

FIG. 61 is a side view of another example aseptic coupling in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIG. 62 is a top view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 61.

FIG. 63 is an end view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 61.

FIG. 64 is a perspective view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 61.

FIG. 65 is another perspective view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 61.

FIG. 66 is a top view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 61 with theprotective cover removed.

FIG. 67 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the aseptic couplingof FIG. 61 taken along break line 67-67 of FIG. 66.

FIG. 68 is an end view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 61 with theprotective cover removed.

FIG. 69 is a top view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 61 in acoupled configuration.

FIG. 70 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of two coupled asepticcouplings of FIG. 61 taken along break line 70-70 of FIG. 69.

FIG. 71 is an end view of two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 61 in acoupled configuration.

FIG. 72 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of two coupled asepticcouplings of FIG. 61 taken along break line 72-72 of FIG. 69.

FIG. 73 is a perspective view of another example aseptic coupling inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 74 is a top view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 73.

FIG. 75 is an end view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 73.

FIG. 76 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the aseptic couplingof FIG. 73.

FIG. 77 is a first perspective view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 73without its protective cover.

FIG. 78 is another perspective view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 73without its protective cover.

FIG. 79 is a top view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 73 without itsprotective cover.

FIG. 80 is a bottom view of the aseptic coupling of FIG. 73 without itsprotective cover.

FIG. 81 is an exploded view of the main body and membrane of the asepticcoupling of FIG. 73.

FIG. 82 is an exploded view of the main body of the aseptic coupling ofFIG. 73 showing the body member and termination member separated fromeach other.

FIG. 83 is a side view of a seal member of the aseptic coupling of FIG.73.

FIG. 84 is an end view of the seal member of FIG. 83.

FIG. 85 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the seal member ofFIG. 83.

FIG. 86 is a perspective view showing two of the aseptic couplings ofFIG. 73 in a coupled arrangement.

FIG. 87 is a top view showing two of the aseptic couplings of FIG. 73 ina coupled arrangement.

FIG. 88 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view taken along break lineB-B of FIG. 87.

FIG. 89 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view taken along break lineA-A of FIG. 87.

Like reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

As used herein, the term “sterilize” means a process of freeing, to aspecified degree, a surface or volume from microorganisms. In exampleembodiments, the sterility of various components can be achieved usingone or more sterilization techniques, including gamma irradiation,E-beam, ethylene oxide (EtO), and/or autoclave technologies.

As used herein, the term “aseptic” refers to any process that maintainsa sterilized surface or volume.

As used herein, the term “fluid” means any substance that can be made toflow including, but is not limited to, liquids, gases, granular orpowdered solids, mixtures or emulsions of two or more fluids,suspensions of solids within liquids or gases, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 1, an example system 10 is shown. System 10includes a first piece of processing equipment 20 and a second piece ofprocessing equipment 30. In example embodiments, equipment 20 and 30 arebioreactors including biomaterial. In other embodiments, equipment 20and 30 can be other apparatuses that require a sterile connectiontherebetween such as, for example, a bioreactor and a media bag, samplebag, or other receptacle.

Equipment 20 includes a fluid pathway 22 extending therefrom that isterminated by an aseptic coupling arrangement 50 including a firstaseptic coupling device 100 a. Likewise, equipment 30 includes a fluidpathway 32 extending therefrom that is terminated by a second asepticcoupling device 100 b of the aseptic coupling arrangement 50. Thecoupling arrangement 50 is representative of the multiple differentaseptic couplings described herein.

In example embodiments, aseptic coupling devices 100 a and 100 b aresubstantially similar or genderless (e.g., identical except for possiblydifferences in terminations). However, it is noted that each asepticcoupling device 100 a, 100 b may be provided with different featuresthan the other, as desired.

In example embodiments, the fluid containing environments withinpathways 22 and 32 and aseptic coupling devices 100 a and 100 a aresterile. In some embodiments, the aseptic coupling arrangement 50 can beplaced in an uncoupled configuration, one or more pre-coupledconfigurations, and in a coupled configuration, as described furtherbelow. In a pre-coupled configuration, while the coupling devices aremechanically coupled to each other, no fluid flow path is opentherethrough.

The coupling devices 100 a and 100 a are designed and configured so thatthey can be reconfigured from the uncoupled state to the coupled state(e.g., to connect pathways 22 and 32) while preventing a loss ofsterility of the fluid containing environments within the pathways 22and 32. Hence, using the aseptic coupling arrangement 50, fluid can betransferred between equipment 20 and 30 (via coupling devices 100 a and100 a) without becoming bio-contaminated.

FIGS. 2-7 depict a first example aseptic coupling 200. As shown in FIG.7, two aseptic couplings 200 can be mated together to create an asepticcoupling arrangement 300 with a sterile flow path therethrough.

The aseptic coupling 200 includes a coupling portion 210 and a cover240. The coupling portion 210 and the cover 240 are slidably coupledtogether (by a tongue in groove arrangement in the depicted embodiment).A detent mechanism can releasably latch the cover 240 to the couplingportion 210. When two aseptic couplings 200 are mated together in thepre-coupled or coupled state, the covers 240 become uncoupled from theirrespective coupling portions 210, as described further below.

A cover seal 216 (FIG. 4) is interposed between the cover 240 and thecoupling portion 210. The cover 240 and the cover seal 216 preventscontamination of the internal flow path of the aseptic coupling 200while the cover 240 is coupled to the coupling portion 210.

The coupling portion 210 includes a main body 212, a lock ring 220, aseal pusher 230, and a primary seal 236. The lock ring 220 is rotatablycoupled to the seal pusher 230. The assembly of the lock ring 220 andseal pusher 230 is threadedly coupled to the main body 212. Accordingly,rotating the lock ring 220 in relation to the main body 212 will causethe lock ring 220 and seal pusher 230 to move longitudinally in relationto the main body 212 in accordance with the pitch of the threads betweenthe lock ring 220 and the main body 212. The seal pusher 230 is incontact with the primary seal 236.

While the aseptic coupling 200 is in the uncoupled configuration (asshown in FIGS. 2-6) the primary seal 236 is set back from the front faceof the main body 212 that faces toward the cover 240. Rotation of thelock ring 220 will translate the seal pusher 230 so that the primaryseal 236 can be pushed toward and past the front face of the main body212.

Referring specifically to FIGS. 5 and 6, two aseptic couplings 200 canbe physically aligned with each other by a user in preparation forsliding them into the pre-coupled configuration. The main body 212 andcover 240 can include alignment ribs and corresponding alignmentrecesses to aid the user to properly align the two aseptic couplings200. When the alignment ribs are positioned in the correspondingalignment recesses, the user can slide the coupling portions 210(transversely to their longitudinal axes) into engagement with eachother. In the process, the covers 240 will be forced to slide away frombeing engaged with the coupling portions 210 and will fall away.

After the coupling portions 210 are slid together, the coupling portions210 of the two aseptic couplings 200 will become mated together as shownin FIG. 7. A detent mechanism can releasably latch the two main bodies212 together. The sliding together of the coupling portions 210 puts theaseptic couplings 200 in the pre-coupled configuration. In thatconfiguration, the primary seals 236 are not in contact with each other.

With the two aseptic couplings 200 in the pre-coupled configuration asshown in FIG. 7, then the lock rings 220 of each coupling portion 210can be rotated so that the primary seals 236 are forced to move towardeach other and become compressed against each other. At this point, thetwo aseptic couplings 200 are in the coupled configuration. A detentmechanism can latch the lock rings 220 in the coupled configuration.

FIGS. 8-13 depict a second example aseptic coupling 400. As shown inFIGS. 11-13, two aseptic couplings 400 can be mated together to createan aseptic coupling arrangement 500 with a sterile flow paththerethrough.

The aseptic coupling 400 includes a main body 410, a seal pusher 420, aseal 430, and a membrane 440. The seal pusher 420 is rotatably coupledto the main body 410. The seal 430 is within the interior of the mainbody 410 and is abutted by the seal pusher 420. The membrane 440 isremovably attached to the front face of the main body 410 to fully coverthe seal 430 and to seal the interior of the main body 410 from theambient environment. In some embodiments, the membrane 440 is ultrasonicwelded, heat-sealed, or adhered to the main body 420.

In the uncoupled and pre-coupled configurations, the seal 430 is fullywithin the main body 410. That is the front face of the seal 430 is setback from the front face of the main body 410, and from the membrane440.

The main body 420 includes an alignment post and an alignment guide. Thealignment guide defines an open space that is shaped in a correspondingmanner to the alignment post so that an alignment post from a matingcoupling can be slidably received therein.

Referring specifically to FIGS. 11-13, a user can conjoin two asepticcouplings 400 together by aligning their alignment posts and alignmentguides and pressing them longitudinally into engagement with each otheras shown. This is the pre-coupled configuration. In some embodiments, alatch mechanism can detain the two aseptic couplings 400 together.

Next, seal pusher levers 422 extending from the seal pushers 420 can bepivoted in relation to their respective main body 410. While beingpivoted, the seal pusher levers 422 travel within slots 412 defined bythe main body 410. The slots 412 extend at an acute angle relative tothe longitudinal axis of the main body 410. Accordingly, as the sealpushers 420 are pivoted they also move along the longitudinal axis andpush the seals 430 correspondingly. When fully rotated (e.g., in a rangeof 80 degrees to 100 degrees), the seal pusher levers 422 are receivedin slots defined in the alignment posts. In some embodiments, the sealpusher levers 422 latch into the slots defined in the alignment posts.

When the seal pusher levers 422 have been rotated, the seals 430compress or sandwich the two membranes 440 that are still between theseals 430. In fact, four layers of the membranes 440 are disposedbetween the two seals 430 because each of the membranes 440 is foldedover on itself.

While the seals 430 are compressing the four layers of the membranes 440therebetween, the membranes 440 can be pulled transversely as indicatedby arrow P in FIG. 13. Due to the folds in the membranes 440, as themembranes 440 are pulled, the membranes 440 will effectively roll offthe faces of the main bodies 410, and the seals 430 will then becomeabutted against each other. That creates the coupled configuration ofthe aseptic coupling arrangement 500.

FIGS. 14-22 depict a third example aseptic coupling 600. As shown inFIGS. 20-22, two aseptic couplings 600 can be mated together to createan aseptic coupling arrangement 700 with a sterile flow paththerethrough.

The aseptic coupling 600 includes a main body 610 and a seal/pull tab620. The main body 610 includes piercing member 612 (FIG. 21). Theseal/pull tab 620 includes a seal member 622 and a pull tab 624 that areattached to each other. In some embodiments, the seal/pull tab 620 is aunitary member. In some embodiments, the seal/pull tab 620 is aunitarily-molded silicone member.

Referring specifically to FIGS. 20-22, a user can conjoin two asepticcouplings 600 together by aligning their alignment posts and alignmentguides and pressing them longitudinally into engagement with each otheras shown. This is the pre-coupled configuration. In some embodiments, alatch mechanism can detain the two aseptic couplings 600 together.

Additional compression of the two aseptic couplings 600 toward eachother will cause the piercing members 612 to pierce and/or shear theseal/pull tabs 620. Thereafter, the pull tabs 624 can be pulled in thedirection P and the pull tabs 624 will be removed from the asepticcoupling arrangement 700 while the seal members 622 remain, abuttingagainst each other.

FIGS. 23-44 depict a fourth example aseptic coupling 800. As shown inFIGS. 39-44, two aseptic couplings 800 can be mated together to createan aseptic coupling arrangement 900 with a sterile flow paththerethrough.

The aseptic coupling 800 includes a main body 810, an insert 820, and aseal 830. The seal 830 is fixedly coupled within the main body 810. Theinsert 820 is movably coupled in relation to the main body 810 and tothe seal 830.

The main body 810 has an ovular cross-sectional shape. When a usercompresses the main body 810 along the major axis of the ovularcross-sectional shape, the insert 820 is translatable along thelongitudinal axis of the main body 810. In some embodiments, justpushing the insert 820 into the main body 810 will cause the main body810 to deflect to allow the insert 820 to move farther into the mainbody 810. The insert 820 has two detent positions in relation to themain body 810: (i) a first position as depicted and (ii) a secondposition that creates the coupled configuration of two aseptic couplings800.

As the insert 820 is moved farther into the main body 810, a leading endof the insert 820 will contact the seal 830, and pierce through the seal830. The seal 830 can be perforated to allow the piercing to occur morereadily than without perforations.

Referring specifically to FIGS. 39-44, a user can conjoin two asepticcouplings 800 together by aligning their alignment posts and alignmentguides and pressing them longitudinally into engagement with each otheras shown. This is the pre-coupled configuration. In some embodiments, alatch mechanism can detain the two aseptic couplings 800 together.

While the two aseptic couplings 800 are coupled together, a user canadvance the inserts 820 into the main bodies 810 (to their secondpositions). In doing so, the seals 830 will be pierced. When the seals830 become pierced, portions of the opposing seals 830 will becomedisplaced into contact with each other to create a fluid sealtherebetween. The tips of the inserts 820 will be spaced apart from eachother, and the seals 830 will contact each other to establish a sealedsterile flow path through the aseptic coupling arrangement 900. This isthe coupled configuration.

FIGS. 45-60 depict a fifth example aseptic coupling 1000. As shown inFIGS. 56-60, two aseptic couplings 1000 can be mated together to createan aseptic coupling arrangement 1100 with a sterile flow paththerethrough.

The aseptic coupling 1000 includes a twist collar 1010, a seal body1020, a plunger 1030, and a seal 1040. The seal 1040 is fixedly coupledwithin the seal body 1020. The twist collar 1010 is threadedly coupledto the seal body 1020. As the twist collar 1010 is rotated in relationto the seal body 1020, the twist collar 1010 drives the plunger 1030toward the seal 1040.

Referring specifically to FIGS. 56-60, a user can conjoin two asepticcouplings 1000 together by aligning their alignment posts and alignmentguides and pressing them longitudinally into engagement with each otheras shown. This is the pre-coupled configuration. In some embodiments, alatch mechanism can detain the two aseptic couplings 1000 together.

A user can then rotate the twist collars 1010 relative to theirrespective seal bodies 1020. The rotation will drive the plungers 1030toward the seals 1040 and the tips of the plungers 1030 will piercethrough the seals 1040. In some embodiments, the seal 1040 includesperforations (e.g., in a plus sign “+” pattern, FIG. 54) to facilitatethe piercing of the plungers 1030. The plungers 1030 include a tip seal1032 (FIG. 51). As the plungers 1030 pierce through the seals 1040, thetip seals 1032 can abut against each other to create an aseptic couplingarrangement 1100 with a sterile flow path therethrough.

FIGS. 61-68 depict another example aseptic coupling 1200. As shown inFIGS. 69-72, two aseptic couplings 1200 can be mated together to createan aseptic coupling arrangement 1300 with a sterile flow paththerethrough.

As shown in FIGS. 61-63, a protective cover 1202 can be releasablyattached to a main body 1210 of the coupling 1200. The protective cover1202 can serve to protect the membrane 1240 (not visible) duringshipping and handling. The protective cover 1202 also maintains therotational position of a seal pusher lever 1222 that extends through anopen-ended slot 1203 defined by the protective cover 1202. In addition,the presence of the protective cover 1202 can help facilitate manualhandling of the coupling 1200.

In the depicted embodiment, the protective cover 1202 includes a firstgrip portion 1204 a and a second grip portion 1204 b that are onopposite sides of the protective cover 1202. To remove the protectivecover 1202 from the coupling 1200, the user can manually pinch the gripportions 1204 a-b toward each other to open the opposite end of theprotective cover 1202, and then longitudinally pull the protective cover1202 away from the coupling 1200.

With the protective cover 1202 removed, the coupling 1200 is entirelyvisible, such as depicted in FIGS. 64-68.

The aseptic coupling 1200 includes the main body 1210, a seal pusher1220 with its seal pusher lever 1222 extending radially, a seal 1230,and a membrane 1240. The seal pusher 1220 is rotatably coupled to themain body 1210. The seal pusher lever 1222 includes a firstradially-extending member 1223 a and a second radially-extending member1223 b.

The seal 1230 is within the interior of the main body 1210 and isabutted by the seal pusher 1220. The membrane 1240 is removably attachedto the front face of the main body 1210 to cover fully the seal 1230 andto seal the interior of the main body 1210 from the ambient environment.In some embodiments, the membrane 1240 is ultrasonic welded,heat-sealed, or adhered to the main body 1220.

In some embodiments, while the aseptic coupling 1200 is in the uncoupledand pre-coupled configurations, the seal 1230 is fully within the mainbody 1210. That is the front face of the seal 1230 is set back from thefront face of the main body 1210, and from the membrane 1240.Alternatively, in some embodiments the seal 1230 protrudes slightly fromthe front face of the main body 1210 while the aseptic coupling 1200 isin the uncoupled and pre-coupled configurations.

The main body 1210 includes an alignment post 1212 and an alignmentguide 1216. The alignment guide 1216 defines an open space that isshaped in a corresponding manner to the alignment post 1212 so that analignment post 1212 from a mating coupling 1200 can be slidably receivedtherein. The alignment post 1212 defines a notch 1213 and a transversegroove 1214. The free end of the alignment post 1212 includes a latchmember 1215. The alignment guide 1216 includes a latch member 1217 that,as shown in FIG. 66, radially extends into the open space defined by thealignment guide 1216.

Referring specifically to FIGS. 69-72, a user can conjoin two asepticcouplings 1200 together by aligning the alignment post 1212 of a firstone of the couplings 1200 with the alignment guide 1216 of a second oneof the couplings 1200 (and by aligning the alignment guide 1216 of thefirst one of the couplings 1210 with the alignment post 1212 of thesecond one of the couplings 1200) and then pressing them longitudinallyinto engagement with each other as shown to form the aseptic couplingarrangement 1300. When the two aseptic couplings 1200 are fully pressedagainst each other, the latch members 1217 engage into the notches 1213to detain the two aseptic couplings 400 together longitudinally. This isa first pre-coupled configuration.

Next, seal pusher levers 1222 extending from the seal pushers 1220 canbe pivoted in relation to their respective main body 1210. While beingpivoted, the seal pusher levers 1222 travel within slots 1211 defined bythe main body 1210. The slots 1211 extend at an acute angle relative tothe longitudinal axis of the main body 1210. Accordingly, as the sealpushers 1220 are pivoted they also move along the longitudinal axis andpush the seals 1230 toward the mated coupling 1200 correspondingly. Whenfully rotated (e.g., in a range of 80 degrees to 100 degrees), the sealpusher levers 1222 are received by the alignment posts 1212. Inparticular, the first radially-extending members 1223 a are received inthe transverse grooves 1214 and the second radially-extending members1223 b are engaged by the latch members 1215 to latch the seal pushers1220 in the orientation in which the seals 1230 are pushed toward eachother (with the membranes 1240 therebetween). This is a secondpre-coupled configuration.

When the seal pusher levers 1222 have been rotated, the seals 1230compress or sandwich the two membranes 1240 that are still between theseals 1230. In fact, four layers of the membranes 1240 are disposedbetween the two seals 1230 because each of the membranes 1240 is foldedover on itself. While the seals 1230 are compressing the four layers ofthe membranes 1240 therebetween, the membranes 1240 can be pulledtransversely away from the couplings 1200. Due to the folds in themembranes 1240, as the membranes 1240 are pulled, the membranes 1240will effectively roll off the faces of the main bodies 1210, and theseals 1230 will then become abutted against each other. That creates thecoupled configuration of the aseptic coupling arrangement 1300.

FIGS. 73-89 depict another example aseptic coupling 1400. The asepticcoupling 1400 is a genderless coupling. That is, as shown in FIGS.86-89, two aseptic couplings 1400 can be mated together to create anaseptic coupling arrangement 1500 with a sterile flow path therethrough(flow path 1501 along the longitudinal axis of the aseptic couplings1400, FIG. 89).

As shown in FIGS. 73-76, a protective cover 1402 can be releasablyattached to a main body 1410 of the coupling 1400. The protective cover1402 can serve to protect the membrane 1440 during shipping andhandling. The protective cover 1402 also abuts against the membrane 1440(i.e., the two layers of the membrane 1440 as shown in FIG. 76) wherethe membrane 1440 is adjacent the front face of the main body 1410.Accordingly, the protective cover 1402 helps to support or reinforce theattachment of the membrane 1440 to the front face of the main body 1410around the seal 1430. This reinforcement may be beneficial because, forexample, during sterilization the coupling 1440 may be exposed to heatand/or pressure changes that may tend to stress the adherence betweenthe membrane 1440 and the main body 1410. The protective cover 1402defines an opening 1406 that is aligned with the longitudinal axis andfluid flow path of the main body 1410. In addition, the presence of theprotective cover 1402 can help facilitate manual handling of thecoupling 1400.

In the depicted embodiment, the protective cover 1402 includes a firstgrip portion 1404 a and a second grip portion 1404 b that are onopposite sides of the protective cover 1402. To remove the protectivecover 1402 from the main body 1410, the user can manually pinch the gripportions 1404 a-b toward each other to open the opposite end of theprotective cover 1402, and then longitudinally pull the protective cover1402 away from the main body 1410. With the protective cover 1402removed, the main body 1410 and the membrane 1440 are entirely visible,such as depicted in FIGS. 77-81.

FIGS. 77-81 show various views of the main body 1410 and the membrane1440. The membrane 1440 is releasably attached to the main body 1410.The membrane 1440 is removably attached to the front face of the mainbody 1410 to fully cover the seal 1430 (FIG. 76) and to seal theinterior of the main body 1410 from the ambient environment. In someembodiments, the membrane 1440 is ultrasonic welded, heat-sealed,adhered, or otherwise removably attached to the main body 1420.

The membrane 1440 is a thin, flexible member. The membrane 1440 can bemade of materials such as, but not limited to, polyethersulfone (PES),non-woven polyethylene such as Tyvek®, a PES and polyester laminate,expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), metallic foil, and the like,and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the membrane 1440 ishydrophobic and breathable. In particular embodiments, the pore size ofthe membrane 1440 is such that microorganisms larger than 0.2 micronsare filtered out.

The membrane 1440 includes a 180° fold 1442 and a tail end portion 1444.When, as described further below, when two aseptic couplings 1400 aremated together in a pre-coupled configuration, the membranes 1440 arethen manually removed to create an open flow path through the coupledtwo aseptic couplings 1400 (this is referred to as the coupledconfiguration).

When two aseptic couplings 1400 are mated together in a pre-coupledconfiguration, the tail end portions 1444 of the two flexible membranes1440 can be manually manipulated to be abutted against each other. Then,the membranes 1440 can be removed from the pre-coupled aseptic couplings1400 by pulling on the tail end portions 1444 of the membranes 1440.That is, a user can manually grasp the tail end portions 1444 of the twomembranes 1440 (e.g., grasping both tail end portions 1444simultaneously) and simultaneously pull on the membranes 1440transversely away from the longitudinal axes of the two asepticcouplings 1400. Pulling the membranes 1440 transversely away from thelongitudinal axes of the two aseptic couplings 1400 will cause the folds1442 to progress in the transverse direction of the pulling by rolling.As the folds 1442 roll in that manner, the membranes 1440 are beingremoved from the front faces of the two aseptic couplings 1400. As themembranes 1440 are removed from the front faces, the seals 1430eventually make contact with each other and a sterile flow path throughthe two aseptic couplings 1400 is created.

As shown in FIG. 82, the main body 1410 can be, optionally, a two-piececonstruction. That is, in the depicted embodiment the main body 1410includes a body 1450 and a termination member 1460. A seal 1462 (FIG.76) can be disposed between the body 1450 and the termination member1460 to provide a fluid-tight construction.

In the depicted embodiment, the termination member 1460 convenientlysnaps into engagement with the body 1450. That is, the body 1450includes two latch members 1451 a and 1451 b that each engage into acircumferential groove 1461 of the termination member 1460 to detain thebody 1450 and the termination member 1460 together longitudinally. Thissnap-in arrangement makes for efficiency when configuring the asepticcouplings 1400 with various types of termination members 1460 (e.g., abarbed connection as shown, a threaded connection, an elbow fitting, aTee fitting, a compression fitting, etc.). In the depicted embodiment,the termination member 1460 is rotatable about its longitudinal axis inrelation to the body 1450. In other words, the termination member 1460can swivel in relation to the body 1450. In some embodiments, thetermination member 1460 is configured to prevent swiveling (e.g., byusing a flat or a keyway at the connection between the terminationmember 1460 and the body 1450).

FIGS. 83-85 illustrate an example seal 1430. This seal 1430 (while shownhere in isolation) is positioned in a central bore defined by the body1450 (FIG. 76) such that an end portion of the seal 1430 protrudesslightly from the front face of the body 1450 (while being covered bythe membrane 1440). In some embodiments, the other end of the seal 1430and the end of the termination member 1460 abut each other within thebore of the body 1450 (FIG. 76).

In the depicted embodiment, the seal 1430 defines a central longitudinalbore 1431. The outer diameter of the seal 1430 includes a firstcylindrical end portion 1432, a second cylindrical end portion 1435, anda waist portion between the end portions 1432 and 1435. The outerdiameter of the waist portion is smaller than the outer diameters of theend portions 1432 and 1435, and comprises a cylindrical portion 1433 anda frustoconical portion 1434. The bore 1431 comprises two cylindricalend portions and a central portion (between the cylindrical endportions) that is a segment of an ovoid (with its ends truncated). Insome embodiments, the waist portion of the seal's 1430 outer diameter isarcuate (rather than having the cylindrical portion 1433 and thefrustoconical portion 1434). In such a case, the center of the arc ofthe outer diameter is located in an opposite direction in comparison tothe center of the arc of the internal central portion. In some suchembodiments, the arc radii of the arc of the outer diameter and the arcof the internal central portion are unequal. In some such embodiments,the arc radii of the arc of the outer diameter and the arc of theinternal central portion are equal.

FIGS. 86-89 show two aseptic couplings 1400 coupled together to createan aseptic coupling arrangement 1500 with a sterile flow path 1501therethrough. These figures depict the two aseptic couplings 1400coupled together after the removal of the membranes 1440 (FIGS. 76-81).In some embodiments, the sequence of events for creating the asepticcoupling arrangement 1500 is: (i) removal of the protective covers 1402from two aseptic couplings 1400, (ii) snapping together asepticcouplings 1400 so that portions of the membranes 1440 are compressedbetween the two seals 1430 of the aseptic couplings 1400 (this is thepre-coupled configuration), and (iii) manually pulling the membranes1440 transversely away from the main bodies 1410 so that the two seals1430 of the aseptic couplings 1400 become exposed and press against eachother (this is the operative, coupled configuration) (e.g., see FIG.89).

Each aseptic coupling 1400 includes an alignment post 1412 and analignment guide 1416 (e.g., see FIGS. 77 and 78). The alignment guide1416 defines an internal space configured to slidably receive thealignment post 1412 of another aseptic coupling 1400. When two asepticcouplings 1400 are coupled together to create an aseptic couplingarrangement 1500 (in both/either of the pre-coupled configuration andthe coupled configuration), the alignment post 1412 of a first one ofthe aseptic couplings 1400 is engaged within the alignment guide 1416 ofa second one of the aseptic couplings 1400, and the alignment post 1412of the second one of the aseptic couplings 1400 is engaged within thealignment guide 1416 of the first one of the aseptic couplings 1400.

Each alignment guide 1416 includes one or more flexible latch members1417 (e.g., see FIGS. 77 and 78). Each alignment post 1412 includes oneor more notches 1413 that each receive a latch member 1417 of a matingcoupling 1400. In the depicted embodiment, each alignment guide 1416includes two flexible latch members 1417 and each alignment post 1412includes two notches 1413.

In the depicted embodiment, the centerlines of the alignment post 1412,the alignment guide 1416, and the central fluid flow path of the mainbody 1410 are all in a same plane. The central fluid flow path of themain body 1410 is in between the alignment post 1412 and the alignmentguide 1416.

To create the aseptic coupling arrangement 1500 shown in FIGS. 86-89, auser engages the alignment posts 1412 with the alignment guides 1416 oftwo aseptic couplings 1400. The latch members 1417 snap into the notches1413. This is the pre-coupled configuration. The membranes 1440 arestill attached, and are compressed between the face ends of the seals1430. The user then strips the membranes 1440 off from the front facesof the main bodies 1410. The face ends of the seals 1430 then contacteach other. This is the operative, coupled configuration. No furthercompression between the seals 1430 is needed. The coupling processmerely includes snapping two aseptic couplings 1400 into engagement witheach other and then removing the membranes 1440. While thisspecification contains many specific implementation details, theseshould not be construed as limitations on the scope of any invention orof what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that maybe specific to particular embodiments of particular inventions. Certainfeatures that are described in this specification in the context ofseparate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a singleembodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in thecontext of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multipleembodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover,although features may be described herein as acting in certaincombinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more featuresfrom a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from thecombination, and the claimed combination may be directed to asubcombination or variation of a subcombination.

Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particularorder, this should not be understood as requiring that such operationsbe performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, orthat all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirableresults. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processingmay be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system modulesand components in the embodiments described herein should not beunderstood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and itshould be understood that the described program components and systemscan generally be integrated together in a single product or packagedinto multiple products.

Particular embodiments of the subject matter have been described. Otherembodiments are within the scope of the following claims. For example,the actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different orderand still achieve desirable results. As one example, the processesdepicted in the accompanying figures do not necessarily require theparticular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirableresults. In certain implementations, multitasking and parallelprocessing may be advantageous.

What is claimed is:
 1. An aseptic fluid coupling comprising: a main bodydefining a longitudinal axis, a bore, and a fluid flow path through themain body along the longitudinal axis, the main body comprising: a frontface; a termination that is at an opposite end of the main body incomparison to the front face; an alignment post; and an alignment guidedefining internal space configured to slidably receive an alignment postof another aseptic fluid coupling when two of the aseptic fluidcouplings are mated together; a seal member including a portion disposedwithin the bore and a portion extending from the front face around thelongitudinal axis; and a flexible membrane including a portion attachedto the front face around the seal member to block contaminants fromentering the fluid flow path, the membrane also including a tail endportion that is at an opposite end of the membrane in comparison to theportion attached to the front face.
 2. The aseptic fluid coupling ofclaim 1, wherein the alignment post extends parallel to the longitudinalaxis.
 3. The aseptic fluid coupling of claim 1, wherein the membrane isporous such that air can pass through the membrane.
 4. The aseptic fluidcoupling of claim 1, wherein the alignment post and the alignment guideeach include attachment features whereby the alignment post latches withan engaged alignment guide and the alignment guide latches with anengaged alignment post.
 5. The aseptic fluid coupling of claim 4,wherein the attachment features of the alignment post includes at leastone groove.
 6. The aseptic fluid coupling of claim 4, wherein theattachment features of the alignment guide includes at least oneflexible latch member.
 7. The aseptic fluid coupling of claim 1, whereinthe main body comprises a termination member that includes thetermination, and wherein the termination member extends into the bore.8. The aseptic fluid coupling of claim 7, wherein the termination membersnaps into engagement with other portions of the main body.
 9. Theaseptic fluid coupling of claim 8, wherein the termination member isrotatable about the longitudinal axis in relation to the other portionsof the main body.
 10. The aseptic fluid coupling of claim 8, furthercomprising a seal disposed between the termination member and the otherportions of the main body.
 11. The aseptic fluid coupling of claim 7,wherein the termination member defines a portion of the fluid flow path.12. The aseptic fluid coupling of claim 7, wherein the terminationmember abuts against the seal member within the bore.
 13. The asepticfluid coupling of claim 1, further comprising a protective cover that isreleasably engageable with the main body.
 14. The aseptic fluid couplingof claim 13, wherein the protective cover presses two layers of themembrane against the seal member while the protective cover is engagedwith the main body.
 15. The aseptic fluid coupling of claim 13, whereinthe protective cover defines an opening aligned with the longitudinalaxis while the protective cover is engaged with the main body.
 16. Anaseptic fluid coupling comprising: a main body defining a longitudinalaxis, a bore, and a fluid flow path through the main body along thelongitudinal axis, the main body comprising: a front face; an alignmentpost; and an alignment guide; a seal member including a portionextending from the front face; and a flexible membrane including aportion attached to the front face around the seal member.
 17. Theaseptic fluid coupling of claim 16, wherein the alignment guide definesan internal space configured to slidably receive an alignment post ofanother aseptic fluid coupling when two of the aseptic fluid couplingsare mated together.
 18. The aseptic fluid coupling of claim 16, whereina centerline of the alignment post, a centerline of the alignment guide,and the longitudinal axis are all in a same plane.
 19. The aseptic fluidcoupling of claim 18, wherein the bore is between the alignment post andthe alignment guide.
 20. The aseptic fluid coupling of claim 18, whereina distance between the longitudinal axis and the centerline of thealignment post is equal to a distance between the longitudinal axis andthe centerline of the alignment guide.